Okay it’s not Broadway, but downtown Wilmington has so much to offer theater enthusiasts. At the center of theater community is the iconic Thalian Hall. Built in 1858, it is one of the oldest theaters in the country and a living testament to Wilmington’s deep-seated love for the performing arts.
Well, the curtain has risen on another season of productions put on by The Thalian Opera House Theatre Company . This year marks 39 year of the company making live theatre in Wilmington. Last month the company released its schedule of shows for 2024. Tickets for the following shows and season ticket packages are available on the OHTC website
Death of a Salesman is set to run Feb. 23 to March 3.
- Written by Arthur Miller
- Directed by Stoney B. Mootoo (Broadway’s THE BOOK OF MORMON)
- Starring Fracaswell Hyman as Willy Loman (2023 Wilmington Theatre Award winner for Outstanding Actor In a Play)a poignant American traged
The play explores the disillusionment and shattered dreams of Willy Loman, a struggling salesman. The play delves into themes of the American Dream, familial relationships, and the cost of pursuing success, as Willy grapples with his past, present, and the elusive promise of prosperity. Ultimately, the narrative unfolds as a powerful examination of the human condition and the toll of societal expectations on an individual’s sense of self-worth.
Annie is set for June 20 through July 7.
- Book by Thomas Meehan, music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Martin Charnin
- Directed by Carson Hobbs (Broadway’s WICKED, 2023 Wilmington Theatre Award winner for Outstanding Choreographer)
Annie” is a heartwarming musical that follows the adventures of a plucky orphan named Annie in Depression-era New York City. When she is chosen to spend Christmas with the wealthy industrialist Oliver Warbucks, Annie’s infectious optimism and resilience bring hope and joy into the lives of those around her. The musical is celebrated for its catchy tunes, memorable characters, and its uplifting message of optimism triumphing over adversity.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is set for July 18-28.
- Book by Douglas McGrath, words and music by Gerry Goffin, Carole King, Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil
- Directed by Ray Kennedy (multi-Wilmington Theatre Award winner for Outstanding Director & Outstanding Choreographer
Music Directed by Brian Whitted (Broadway’s CHICAGO, 2023 Wilmington Theatre Award winner for Outstanding Music Direction)Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” chronicles the remarkable life and career of singer-songwriter Carole King. From her early days as a teenage songwriter to her rise to fame as a solo artist with the groundbreaking album “Tapestry,” the musical captures King’s journey through the music industry, personal relationships, and the cultural shifts of the 20th century. With a soundtrack of beloved hits, the show celebrates King’s enduring talent and impact on the world of music
Heathers: The Musical is set for Aug. 1-4.
- Book, music and lyrics by Kevin Murphy & Laurence O’Keefe
- Directed by Sydney Smith Martin (2023 Wilmington Theatre Award winner for Outstanding Actress In a Play)
- This is an Opera House Theatre Company Apprentice Program production.
Heathers: The Musical” is a darkly comedic stage adaptation of the cult classic 1988 film. The story follows Veronica Sawyer as she navigates the treacherous social hierarchy of high school, particularly dealing with the menacing clique of Heathers, until her rebellious involvement with a mysterious new student, J.D., leads to unexpected consequences. Filled with satirical humor, catchy songs, and themes of teenage angst and societal pressures, the musical offers a twisted and entertaining exploration of the darker side of high school life.
Fiddler on the Roof is set for Aug. 15-25.
- Book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick
- Directed by Suellen Yates (Wilmington Theatre Award nominee for Outstanding Director of a Musical)
- Music Directed by Brian Whitted (Broadway’s CHICAGO, 2023 Wilmington Theatre Award winner for Outstanding Music Direction)
Fiddler on the Roof” is a timeless musical that unfolds in the Russian village of Anatevka, where the dairyman Tevye grapples with the changing traditions of his Jewish community in the face of societal upheaval. Set against the backdrop of Tsarist Russia, the musical explores themes of love, family, and the struggle to maintain cultural identity as Tevye’s three daughters challenge the conventions of arranged marriages. The poignant narrative, complemented by memorable songs like “Tradition” and “If I Were a Rich Man,” captures the universal struggle for balance between tradition and the evolving winds of change.